O B L A T E S   &   A S S O C I A T E S

HOW DOES ONE BECOME AN OBLATE?

There have been rules and statues for Oblates in common usage in the Anglican Tradition for about two hundred years. These cover not only the basic requirements for admission to the life, but the conduct of the life after the final oblation. They are not meant to be a burden, but rather a help, those those choosing this journey to Our Lord.

Not only priests, but the faithful of either sex, may be received as Oblates of Bethlehem Monastery. As it is the duty of Oblates to aspire to a holy life, none will be admitted but persons of solid character and good reputation.

The Postulancy
The start of the journey is to become a postulant oblate. This state continues for a period of three months to one year, depending on the rapidity of the spiritual development of the individual.

During this time the postulant is assigned material to read and study and is required to develop a Rule of Life tailored to and harmonizing with his lifestyle. Encouraged in the adjustment of life to the maintenance of the daily discipline of that Rule it will be found that regular contact with the Master of Oblates, either by letter or phone, is most helpful, indeed it is required.

The postulant becomes involved with the Monastery to the extent circumstances permit, giving support not only with prayers, but with a pledge, if at all possible.

At the end of the postulancy period, the candidate must make a formal request, in writing, to the Master of Oblates, to make a final oblation and thus become an Oblate. The reasons for seeking this state and this journey must be clearly stated.

Duties and Obligations of Oblates
Before all things, Oblates must fulfil the duties of their states of life with the utmost fidelity. One would have to be rebuked for the neglecting of secular obligations (to family, for example) in order to take up the commitments of following the life of an Oblate.

They should set great store in those devout practices which are the duty of all the faithful, such as regular prayers, attendance at Mass and at other services offered by the Church. The Oblates of our Order are expected to always remember the words of our Holy Father Benedict: "Let nothing be put before the Work of God".

As well, Oblates should develop special devotions, particularly to the worship and sacrifice of the Holy Mass. Devotion to the Blessed Virgin Mary, to Saint Joseph, to Saint Benedict, and to the Holy Angels should be cultivated, as well as to the Sacred Heart of Jesus whose mysteries were revealed of old to Benedictine saints. Recitation of the Holy Rosary and of the Stations of the Cross should be a regular part of the spiritual life. As well, Oblates should pray devoutly for the triumph of Holy Church and for the well-being of our Order.

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